meteorite crater: formation of a complex impact crater

Four steps in the formation of a complex impact crater having a central peak and terraces. During excavation (A) the material thrown out of the bowl-shaped depression resembles an outward-moving curtain. Formation of a simple crater ends with completion of the excavation stage. As formation of a larger crater progresses (B–D), the depression is unable to support itself. The centre of the depression rebounds upward, and the edges collapse to form terraces.